Hate Crime Awareness Week Event: ĎArt Brings Communities Togetherí

On Friday 12 February 2016 the Challenging Hate Forum (CHF) will host its fourth annual public event in aid of Hate Crime Awareness Week. Following on from previous themed community events, the CHF invites members of the general public to join them for ‘Art Brings Communities Together’ at Manchester Cathedral.

The Dean of Manchester, The Very Reverend Rogers Govender, will host the event at which Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd will speak about the route to ending hate crime in Greater Manchester and Councillor Nigel Murphy of Manchester City Council will share his vision of the newly-launched Manchester Strategy for Hate Crime 2016-19 with the local community.

Throughout the afternoon local artist Alison Kershaw will lead an art workshop involving the local community to create a fanzine-style magazine using information about the launch of Manchester’s Hate Crime Strategy for 2016-19 and showcasing the work that participating groups do to raise awareness of hate crime and how to report it.

Participating groups have been invited to bring along pieces of artwork to display in a special pop-up gallery in the cathedral. Artwork that means something to their faith or community group depicting peace, joy, or that celebrates diversity. Some fascinating exhibits are expected including a ‘Ketubah’ (Jewish wedding certificate) courtesy of the Manchester Jewish Museum, a ‘Talking Drum’ from the Nigerian Women’s Group and a rainbow banner celebrating the LGBT community.

The Open Voice choir will sing and various other art performances are expected to take place. Greater Manchester Police volunteers will serve tea, coffee and biscuits to the public throughout the afternoon and the event will end with everyone sharing some delicious Indian street food from Mowgli (Corn Exchange) and kosher food from Brackman’s Bakery before taking away the magazines they have created during the afternoon.

This gathering is designed to provide an opportunity for people from different faiths and cultures to mingle in a safe and relaxed atmosphere and to enjoy fun, food and fellowship in the glorious surroundings of Manchester Cathedral. Funding for this event has been provided by Manchester City Council.